The Stade Rennais has made a major recruitment with Valentin Rongier, a 30-year-old midfielder, for three seasons estimated at 5.5 million euros. After six seasons at Olympique de Marseille, where his coach Roberto De Zerbi no longer wanted him, Rongier agreed to join the Breton club, attracted by his ambition and the proposed sports project. The player, experienced in Ligue 1 and Champions League, stressed the importance of competitiveness and victory in his decision, wanting to get out of his comfort zone and take up a new challenge. He also expressed his desire to bring leadership and maturity to accompany young players and strengthen the character of the team.

The arrival of Valentin Rongier arouses a strong emotion, not only for the quality of the player but also because of his Nantes past. Rongier had in the past fuelled polemics with Stade Rennais through statements and “chambrages”, notably via social networks. He now acknowledges the sensitivity of these comments, explaining that they were linked to a different context when he was operating in Nantes and that he had never wanted to disrespect the institution or supporters. He sees “chambering” as part of sports culture, but regrets the twists that it can take and is disappointed with the negative reactions.

Despite the polemics of the past, Valentin Rongier showed a determination to help Stade Rennais regain its place. He promises to give himself 100% on the ground to reverse the trend and raise the morale of the supporters. He said he was aware of the understandable reactions to his past, but said he had matured and that the Breton club’s project was perfect for him. His first match with the Rennes jersey will take place in mid-August against the Olympique de Marseille, marking a return to the field that promises to be filled with emotion.